Explore Sienna's inspiring journey from laboratory animal husbandry 🐾 to wildlife conservation 🌍 at the New England Primate Conservancy in this insightful interview. Driven by a lifelong passion for wildlife 🦍, Sienna discusses the significance of her role in educating the public 📚 about the global importance of primates. The conversation touches on both the challenges and opportunities she has encountered, including geographical constraints 🌍 and navigating a competitive job market 💼.

Sienna shares how she has blended her background in laboratory animal husbandry with wildlife conservation 🐒, with a strong focus on humane treatment. She also showcases her unique perspective through wildlife photography 📸. Throughout the interview, Sienna offers five key lessons from her career development 🎓, providing practical advice for WildHub members.

In her closing thoughts, Sienna encourages the importance of networking and persistence within the community 🤝. She highlights success stories 🌟 and underscores the invaluable contributions each member can make to wildlife conservation 🌿. Let’s dive in!

Ussi: What inspired your decision to switch careers from laboratory animal husbandry to wildlife conservation at the New England Primate Conservancy, and the impact you aim to make through this role?

Sienna: I transitioned from laboratory animal husbandry to wildlife conservation because my childhood passion was always aligned with working in wildlife conservation. The shift was prompted by my desire to contribute meaningfully to the conservation of primates and their ecosystems. In my role at the New England Primate Conservancy, I am making a significant impact by educating the public on the global importance of primates. Through my writing, I highlight their roles in ecosystems, their conservation needs, and the vital necessity of preserving them for both species and ecosystems.

Ussi: What challenges or opportunities have you encountered during your career switch, especially considering the abundance of biotech/pharmaceutical companies in the Boston area?

Sienna: The career switch brought its share of challenges, notably the geographical aspect. Reluctance to drive has limited my opportunities, as many wildlife conservation positions are in less urbanized areas. Despite the challenges, I am determined to overcome my driving concerns and explore opportunities. One significant challenge has been convincing hiring entities to give a career switcher like me a chance. However, I persistently emphasize my adaptable skills and unwavering commitment to learning and contributing to the role.

Ussi: How do you envision combining your background in laboratory animal husbandry with your passion for wildlife conservation, and what unique perspectives do you bring to the field?

Sienna: Merging my background in laboratory animal husbandry with wildlife conservation presents a unique challenge due to their distinct nature. While I acknowledge the necessity of animal use in research, my experience underscores the importance of humane treatment. My creative skills, particularly in wildlife photography, offer a distinctive perspective. Through compelling images, I aim to shed light on threatened and endangered species, fostering a connection between viewers and the conservation cause.

Ussi: Based on your career development to date, what would be your top 5 lessons learned you would like to share with our WildHub members today?

Sienna:

1. Pursue your passion, but ensure financial sustainability, considering freelancing alongside more lucrative occupations.
2. Networking is crucial; success often stems from two or three degrees of separation.
3. Dedicate time to volunteer within your area of interest; it enhances your network, resume, and references.
4. Understand that career switching and job hunting are prolonged processes; take breaks, practice mindfulness, and celebrate achievements.
5. Never give up; the right job is out there. Job hunting can be challenging, but persistence pays off.

Ussi: Any final thoughts you would like to share with our WildHub members?

Sienna: I welcome connections and networking opportunities with fellow members. Success stories of career switchers exist, and while the journey may take time, your passion is worth pursuing. The world's wildlife needs your contribution, and your dedication is invaluable. Keep pushing forward; your time will come.

In conclusion, Sienna's journey from laboratory animal husbandry to wildlife conservation at the New England Primate Conservancy is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her dedication to educating the public on the significance of primates reflects a deep commitment to global conservation.

Navigating challenges such as geographical limitations and breaking into a competitive job market, Sienna's story resonates with resilience. Merging her background in laboratory animal husbandry with a commitment to humane treatment and wildlife photography, she brings a unique and compassionate perspective to the field.

The interview concludes with Sienna's invaluable lessons for WildHub members, emphasizing the importance of pursuing passion, networking, and volunteering, navigating career transitions with patience, and maintaining unwavering persistence.

Sienna's encouraging final thoughts extend an invitation to connect and network within the WildHub community. Her optimism underscores the belief that success stories for career switchers are not only possible but vital for contributing to the preservation of our precious biodiversity. In Sienna's journey, we find inspiration and a compelling call to action for all those dedicated to making a positive impact on wildlife conservation.